"A bicycle, also called a pedal cycle, bike, push-bike or cycle..."
Choosing the right bike that suits your needs and riding style.
Bike types: Learn about the different types of bikes available, including road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, and more. Understand the specific uses and advantages of each type.
Bike components: Familiarize yourself with the various components that make up a bike, including the frame, wheels, brakes, gears, pedals, and handlebars. Learn about the importance of each component and how they affect performance.
Sizing: Determine the correct size of bike for your body, including height, weight, and inseam. Understand how to measure and adjust the bike to ensure a comfortable and efficient ride.
Fit: Learn about bike fit and how to adjust your position on the bike to optimize power, reduce fatigue, and prevent injury.
Accessories: Explore different bike accessories, such as helmets, lights, locks, and water bottles, and understand their importance for safety, comfort, and convenience.
Maintenance: Learn basic bike maintenance skills, including how to clean and lubricate the bike, adjust brakes and gears, and replace tires and tubes.
Budget: Determine your budget for purchasing a bike and understand how different price points will affect quality, features, and performance.
Brand and model selection: Research different bike brands and models, read reviews and ratings, and consider factors such as durability, aesthetics, and customer service.
Local terrain and riding conditions: Consider the local terrain and riding conditions, such as hills, road quality, traffic, and weather, when selecting a bike and gearing.
Personal preferences and goals: Take into account personal preferences and goals, such as fitness level, riding style, and aesthetic preferences, when selecting a bike.
Road bikes: Designed for speed and efficiency on paved roads, road bikes have narrow tires, lightweight frames, and drop handlebars.
Hybrid bikes: A combination of road and mountain bikes, hybrids are versatile and suitable for a variety of terrains. They have flat handlebars and medium-sized tires.
Mountain bikes: Built for off-road cycling, mountain bikes have wide tires with deep treads, suspension systems, and flat handlebars.
Touring bikes: Designed for long-distance travel, touring bikes are sturdy and durable, with comfortable seats, multiple gears, and the ability to carry luggage.
Folding bikes: Ideal for commuting and storage, folding bikes can be easily folded and stored in tight spaces. They typically have smaller wheels and are lightweight.
electric bikes: Offering electric-powered pedal assistance, e-bikes are suitable for long commutes or those who want an easier riding experience.
Tandem bikes: A bicycle built for two, tandem bikes enable two people to ride together on a single bike.
Recumbent bikes: With a reclined seating position, recumbent bikes are comfortable and offer a low center of gravity for stability.
Cruiser bikes: With a relaxed seating position, cruiser bikes are ideal for leisurely rides and short commutes. They typically have wide seats and handlebars.
Gravel bikes: A newer category of bike, gravel bikes are designed for off-road cycling on rough terrain, with wide tires and comfortable geometry.
"Bicycles were introduced in the 19th century in Europe."
"By the early 21st century, there were more than 1 billion."
"These numbers far exceed the number of cars, both in total and ranked by the number of individual models produced."
"They are the principal means of transportation in many regions."
"...children's toys, general fitness, military and police applications, courier services, bicycle racing, and bicycle stunts."
"The basic shape and configuration of a typical upright or 'safety bicycle' has changed little since the first chain-driven model was developed around 1885."
"Many details have been improved, especially since the advent of modern materials and computer-aided design. These have allowed for a proliferation of specialized designs for many types of cycling."
"In the 21st century electric bicycles have become popular."
"The bicycle's invention has had an enormous effect on society, both in terms of culture and of advancing modern industrial methods."
"Several components that played a key role in the development of the automobile were initially invented for use in the bicycle, including ball bearings, pneumatic tires, chain-driven sprockets, and tension-spoked wheels."